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Creative Ways Not to Spend Money

This month has been all about trying to find ways to still be entertained, and yet not spend money. That isn't always easy in January in Nebraska (because it is so cold!!) Here are a few that we've tried this month:

Pick a Movie theme and rent from the library. We decided to go with classic musicals. You'd be shocked what the libraries have to offer. We find lots of amazing movies, often newly released or older ones you can't find anymore.

Cook more. I particularly hate cooking because of all the time it takes. However, we found that cooking was a fun activity to do when you are trying not to spend extra money.

Follow your local library on Facebook. I know I've already mentioned libraries, but they have TONS of fun things to do for kids, often story time or crafts. Most don't care if you are a member or not, so try other libraries in your area as well.

Reconnect with friends. Whether it is phone calls, having people over for a chat...use the extra time to reconnect.

Clean house. Getting rid of things is a great reminder of why you don't need to spend money. Sell it, give it away, but get it out of the house! We've sold about $50 worth of junk this month, and I had a wonderful time organizing (for the first time ever) my craft bins into a well organized shelf.

Pamper Yourself. When was the last time you enjoyed a long bubble bath, painted your nails, or gave your hair a good conditioning treatment? Lorelai joined in the pampering by having her toe nails painted!


Find local events. Farmer's markets, free days a museums, light shows, etc. Our local plant nursery had a number of events this month about house plants, we hit up a great light exhibit at a university sponsored art museum.

Get outside. There were a couple days that were really nice this month, so we took walks with Lorelai. She loved getting out in the stroller and we enjoyed exploring our new neighborhood. Go to a park, go sledding...whatever makes sense for that time of year.

Use Memberships. We love Omaha memberships to the zoo and botanical gardens. Yes, they cost money up front, but once you have them...it's free fun!

Board Games. Okay, I can honestly say we did NOT do this. We are not know for being very adventurous when it comes to board games. I never want to start one, but once I have I always have fun. Maybe we will try it this weekend with friends.

Volunteer. I've been trying to do better at volunteering my time lately. The last 2 years I've struggled with having any free time. I am volunteering at a Girls Inc. event tomorrow, and I've been assisting with a baby shower at church as well as coordinating volunteers for weekly church tasks in 2018. Sometimes just having something to fill up your free time is a great way to not think of spending money!


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